Fated by Teri Terry

Orchard Books, 2019. ISBN: 9781408350669. 460 pages, paperback.
(Age: Teenagers+) Recommended. Fated is an exciting origin story to the Slated series. It tells of the chaos that started when the borders closed around the UK and the forceful control the government imposed, the start of rebellion from both those who wish harm to others and those who just want peace, and lastly the consequences of the actions made by all. The story follows Sam, the daughter of the deputy prime minister, and Ava a scholarship student who goes to school with Sam. Both are thrown into a flurry of events when the government starts to lay blame on the youth, imposing rules and restrictions that only apply to them.
This story is truly a gripping read and the perfect choice to help you decide if you want to read the Slated series. Sam's character is very intriguing as she is still figuring out what she wants to do with her life, she knows what she likes but doesn't have the motivation to pursue it. Though thankfully with the help of Ava, she slowly comes to find something to believe in and that provokes her to take action. Ava is different from Sam as she is very driven in her studies, and knows that sometimes it's best to keep her head down and focus. Both girls are discovering themselves and with all the chaos that unfolds around them, it isn't easy.
Overall, this is a wonderful and enticing story that has definitely gotten me interested in the story enough to want to read the trilogy. I would recommend it to teenagers and up.
Kayla Raphael